Tuesday, May 19, 2009

U.S. Senators Olympia J. Snowe and Susan Collins today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Community Facilities program will award more than $3 million in funding for rural community facilities projects in Maine.

The funding is being distributed to Maine through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Senators Snowe and Collins worked with a bipartisan group of senators to craft the legislation that became law in February.

“USDA Rural Development grants provide opportunities for rural communities across Maine to improve their communities and boost economic growth,” Senators Snowe and Collins said in a joint statement.

The following will receive funding:• Maine Rural Water Association - $500,000• Community Concepts, Inc. - $2,655,000• Friends of Marsh River Theater - $21,000

Through its Community Facilities program, USDA ensures that such facilities are available to all rural residents. These funds are available to public bodies, non-profit organizations, and recognized Indian tribes.